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The Pieces that Built Me
Every person is a puzzle made up of many different pieces. Each piece should connect perfectly to the pieces around it. After a while a picture starts to come into focus, and then we, the puzzle creator, can finally make sense of the beauty displayed in front of us.
It was different for me. Some of my pieces were bent or twisted, but I made them fit. It wasn’t until I finally let him in that I realized, I was missing one important piece…
Love.
I knew how to give it. What I didn’t know was how to accept it, until he showed me how…
It was different for me. Some of my pieces were bent or twisted, but I made them fit. It wasn’t until I finally let him in that I realized, I was missing one important piece…
Love.
I knew how to give it. What I didn’t know was how to accept it, until he showed me how…
203 pages, ebook
First published January 25, 2018
47 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
About the author
Amber Lacie
11 books1,231 followersIndie-Award Winning Author Amber Lacie is about all things books, glitter, and shenanigans. Never without a book or caffeinated goodness, she's managed a husband that worships at her alter and two awesome kiddos, all while pumping out tales of love and suspense. Growing up in Chicagoland, she's seen the nitty, and knows the gritty. As for love and home, that landed her in Beverly Shores, Indiana where she dreams up adventures for her characters so that you the reader can explore new bends in the road. Buckle up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
March 3, 2018
3.5 stars
"If I could have cured the world from disease, healing the sick, and saving those who needed more than the world could offer, I would have started with you." - Love this dedication! <3
The Pieces That Built Me was my blind date for February and it was a though read. Not only because it felt like I was reading a lot more than 200 pages but mostly because the topics it deals with are pretty though and made my heart and soul heavy.
"First you stole my heart. Then you stole my words. That makes you the perfect thief because I didn't even know they could be taken."
The story around Arlington consists mostly of loss, dealing with it, dealing with the pain it causes. It shows exactly that life is a puzzle and how every decision we take influences our future and the people in our life. This book shows how Arlington grew up to become a wonderful strong woman formed by loss and lies of her past. But the love of her family, not by blood but by choice, and the love of August helped her staying on her path.
"Time is a bitch. She's fleeting, and she never turns around. She will take everything from you and never look back over her shoulder."
Amber Lacie must be a very strong woman herself taking on such a touching story that seems to be cut right out of real life. All characters feel real and far away from being perfect/flawless. Almost like she endured some of the pain herself putting it between the lines.
The only thing I had some issues with is that I couldn't really feel the chemistry and love neither between Arlo and August nor between Arlo and Ben. However, I was always team August.
"Life is a puzzle. Sometimes, it's hard to see in the beginning the picture they would make, but part of the fun is building it."
"If I could have cured the world from disease, healing the sick, and saving those who needed more than the world could offer, I would have started with you." - Love this dedication! <3
The Pieces That Built Me was my blind date for February and it was a though read. Not only because it felt like I was reading a lot more than 200 pages but mostly because the topics it deals with are pretty though and made my heart and soul heavy.
"First you stole my heart. Then you stole my words. That makes you the perfect thief because I didn't even know they could be taken."
The story around Arlington consists mostly of loss, dealing with it, dealing with the pain it causes. It shows exactly that life is a puzzle and how every decision we take influences our future and the people in our life. This book shows how Arlington grew up to become a wonderful strong woman formed by loss and lies of her past. But the love of her family, not by blood but by choice, and the love of August helped her staying on her path.
"Time is a bitch. She's fleeting, and she never turns around. She will take everything from you and never look back over her shoulder."
Amber Lacie must be a very strong woman herself taking on such a touching story that seems to be cut right out of real life. All characters feel real and far away from being perfect/flawless. Almost like she endured some of the pain herself putting it between the lines.
The only thing I had some issues with is that I couldn't really feel the chemistry and love neither between Arlo and August nor between Arlo and Ben. However, I was always team August.
"Life is a puzzle. Sometimes, it's hard to see in the beginning the picture they would make, but part of the fun is building it."
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January 13, 2018
Review coming soon! But Ben is mine! ;)
January 20, 2018
If you have read Amber Lacie before you know she likes to kick you in the gut with all the feels: ex. Breathe. This one didn’t leave me sobbing which I was thankful for but I still loved it.
This is Arlington’s life story. And my goodness did this girl go through some things. But she stayed strong and did what was best for her life even with bumps in the road. She also had a crazy best friend that was always there for her; everyone should have a BFF like Andrea. I couldn’t help but to swoon over August and was keeping my fingers crossed that he would get his happiness.
I can’t wait for the next book that Amber Lacie writes; she just gets better and better!
This is Arlington’s life story. And my goodness did this girl go through some things. But she stayed strong and did what was best for her life even with bumps in the road. She also had a crazy best friend that was always there for her; everyone should have a BFF like Andrea. I couldn’t help but to swoon over August and was keeping my fingers crossed that he would get his happiness.
I can’t wait for the next book that Amber Lacie writes; she just gets better and better!
February 14, 2018
Every once in a while a reader runs across a book that surprises her/him, and it is such a special and significant moment that makes the story stick with you long after you've read it. I believe this will be one of those books. This is the story of a life - more than one actually...real and uncomfortable and gritty with all of the moments that make you want to scream with happiness, cry your eyes out, throw in the towel, and keep you wondering how you made it through. Arlington is one of those girls who tries so hard to make a good life but keeps on getting the short end of the stick. She has moments of pure joy along with some that drag her so low, I wondered if she would make it out. It's about the best of intentions and the worst mistakes. August is a guy who just wants to love her, and something keeps getting in the way. He always seems to be fighting to swim upstream. Daniel, her twin brother, can't seem to find his way, and he continues to pull Arlington into his pain an suffering and bad choices. Ben is the consummate bad boy who takes her on some of her highest highs and drags her into her lowest lows. And through it all, she has a father who has made so many of the same kinds of mistakes for some of the same reasons. He doesn't know how to love his children through it, and it hurts the children in ways he doesn't know how to fix. And mixed in is her best friend and her family who try to be there for her through every step along the way.
It is a true testament to the way a person's life is truly pieces of a jigsaw puzzle that even though they have rough edges and you want to cram them in where you want them to fit, you really have to wait to find the spot where they really belong. I spent most of the story torn between being angry with Arlington and crying for all she had to go through. I wanted so much to climb into the book and help everyone because they were all so broken. It was such a beautiful and poignant story that made me laugh, made me cringe, made me ball up my fists and want to scream and made me cry. But ultimately, it made me see where I could relate on so many levels with all of the characters. It was written from the heart, and I loved that it wouldn't let me go. I look forward to reading more works by this author.
It is a true testament to the way a person's life is truly pieces of a jigsaw puzzle that even though they have rough edges and you want to cram them in where you want them to fit, you really have to wait to find the spot where they really belong. I spent most of the story torn between being angry with Arlington and crying for all she had to go through. I wanted so much to climb into the book and help everyone because they were all so broken. It was such a beautiful and poignant story that made me laugh, made me cringe, made me ball up my fists and want to scream and made me cry. But ultimately, it made me see where I could relate on so many levels with all of the characters. It was written from the heart, and I loved that it wouldn't let me go. I look forward to reading more works by this author.
January 25, 2018
ARC for honest review
OMG!!! This book is amazing.
It starts off with twins, Daniel and Arlington (love the names). Neither have the best start in life but more so Daniel. He turns to drugs, but you can’t really blame him when you read the story.
Arlington or Arls is adored by August, but not all is fair in love and war. Many ups and downs. But I found myself rooting for August from the very start. He’s a dream! The things he says, his love for Arls. He reminded me very much of an Ed Sheeran type. So expressive with words. I adored him.
Then enter Ben. Wasn’t so keen on him.
Arls best friend Andrea is a hoot. Foul mouthed and crude but with a heart of gold! Now she reminded me of myself 😂
I will be reading this book again!
OMG!!! This book is amazing.
It starts off with twins, Daniel and Arlington (love the names). Neither have the best start in life but more so Daniel. He turns to drugs, but you can’t really blame him when you read the story.
Arlington or Arls is adored by August, but not all is fair in love and war. Many ups and downs. But I found myself rooting for August from the very start. He’s a dream! The things he says, his love for Arls. He reminded me very much of an Ed Sheeran type. So expressive with words. I adored him.
Then enter Ben. Wasn’t so keen on him.
Arls best friend Andrea is a hoot. Foul mouthed and crude but with a heart of gold! Now she reminded me of myself 😂
I will be reading this book again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2018
5/5 Stars
Amber's books are the absolute best for breaking your heart and rebuilding it all within one story.
The story of Arlington, Daniel and August tears at your heart strings. Arlington and Daniel are twins who have a very difficult childhood that effects them both in different ways.
While Daniel turns towards drugs, Arlington is struggling with watching her brother throw everything away while trying not to find comfort in her brother's friend August.
Even though Ben might not have been a character everyone liked or loved I thought his role was needed in order to carry this story to the lengths Amber took us.
I honestly dare you to pick up a copy of any of Amber's books and not become connected with the characters in some way by the end.
Amber's books are the absolute best for breaking your heart and rebuilding it all within one story.
The story of Arlington, Daniel and August tears at your heart strings. Arlington and Daniel are twins who have a very difficult childhood that effects them both in different ways.
While Daniel turns towards drugs, Arlington is struggling with watching her brother throw everything away while trying not to find comfort in her brother's friend August.
Even though Ben might not have been a character everyone liked or loved I thought his role was needed in order to carry this story to the lengths Amber took us.
I honestly dare you to pick up a copy of any of Amber's books and not become connected with the characters in some way by the end.
February 14, 2018
i gotta say this book brought out a lot of emotions for me as to how my life has been these past few months but all i can say is holy wow amber!! yet another book that i can honestly say will be a must read for my friends.
being able to relate to the characters in a book is awesome and some how you make that connection for me with each and everyone book. this one especially since i grew up in a home with one parent and a step parent. the only thing lackin was a sibling that lived with me. now enough of this and on to the book.
really love how since she arlington was young she was tryin to help take care of brother. she gew up tryin to treat him like a brother but was more of a mother to him as how she would take care of him, and slightly lecture him on the bad he did. i feel like the feeling was mutual though because he did all he could to make sure she stayed away from the "bad boys" and didnt get hurt as a brother should. while things were tough at home they stood by one another to the best they could. arlington met one of her brothers friends august and he was the bad boy type and was to be off limits however they found a way to one another and through out the whole story they were friends, a couple, lovers, and their relationship was off and on. august seems to always come to her rescue when she really needed him the most and she didnt know it. after her brother passed away she turned to another friend of her brothers and as he was a bad boy also she thought she loved him while she still thought of august from time to time. after she found out she was preg by ben she then agreed to marry him however life took them for a loop and ben was arrested. arlington told ben she wanted nothing to do with him anymore and to leave her and the baby alone.
arlingtons home life was far from perfect and august knew that. when arlington moved in with ben her life ended up changing and not for the best. she ended up preg and without the baby daddy. she did a great job with her son. she spent a long time just raising her son and not dating or anything. her friend amanda finally said listen to this song and she said that voice....amanda said she should know it and said it was august. little did arlington know that august was doin a gig at the club amanda, friends and self was going to. amanda helped august by getting arlington to the club. he did the rest. arlington hadnt been forth coming of her son to august when she had seen him before. she had him believing she was dating someone. arlingtons father passd and august surprised her and was the buyer of the house and thats when things looked up for her,
before i give the whole thing away i will leave it at this. if you like the feel of, love, hate, passion, fear, happy, and tears this is really the book for you gotta say amber has them all here!!
being able to relate to the characters in a book is awesome and some how you make that connection for me with each and everyone book. this one especially since i grew up in a home with one parent and a step parent. the only thing lackin was a sibling that lived with me. now enough of this and on to the book.
really love how since she arlington was young she was tryin to help take care of brother. she gew up tryin to treat him like a brother but was more of a mother to him as how she would take care of him, and slightly lecture him on the bad he did. i feel like the feeling was mutual though because he did all he could to make sure she stayed away from the "bad boys" and didnt get hurt as a brother should. while things were tough at home they stood by one another to the best they could. arlington met one of her brothers friends august and he was the bad boy type and was to be off limits however they found a way to one another and through out the whole story they were friends, a couple, lovers, and their relationship was off and on. august seems to always come to her rescue when she really needed him the most and she didnt know it. after her brother passed away she turned to another friend of her brothers and as he was a bad boy also she thought she loved him while she still thought of august from time to time. after she found out she was preg by ben she then agreed to marry him however life took them for a loop and ben was arrested. arlington told ben she wanted nothing to do with him anymore and to leave her and the baby alone.
arlingtons home life was far from perfect and august knew that. when arlington moved in with ben her life ended up changing and not for the best. she ended up preg and without the baby daddy. she did a great job with her son. she spent a long time just raising her son and not dating or anything. her friend amanda finally said listen to this song and she said that voice....amanda said she should know it and said it was august. little did arlington know that august was doin a gig at the club amanda, friends and self was going to. amanda helped august by getting arlington to the club. he did the rest. arlington hadnt been forth coming of her son to august when she had seen him before. she had him believing she was dating someone. arlingtons father passd and august surprised her and was the buyer of the house and thats when things looked up for her,
before i give the whole thing away i will leave it at this. if you like the feel of, love, hate, passion, fear, happy, and tears this is really the book for you gotta say amber has them all here!!
January 24, 2018
The Pieces that Built Me by Amber Lacie is going to simply leave readers stunned. In The Pieces that Built Me, readers walk through the life of Arlington (aka Arlo). Her life has been fraught with pain and heartache. Yet, she comes out of it an incredibly strong woman. Amber Lacie is known by her readers for extreme angst, and The Pieces that Built Me continues to deliver the emotional rollercoaster that readers expect from Amber Lacie.
While I did not sob through The Pieces that Built Me as I have with previous works by Amber Lacie, I did get teary and was quite literally stunned repeatedly with the curveballs Arlo had thrown at her. The plot will leave you guessing. I loved some of the secondary characters and other's I wanted to throat punch...My Favorite was Andrea, Arlo's BFF. I think everyone needs an Andrea in their life and I hope to see more of her and her crazy shenanigans in another story...possibly with Blake!?!?! Also, while I didn't not agree with some of the decisions Arlo makes in her life, I am glad she found love, more than once! Both Ben and August left me itching for more...and I wish we had gotten this story in duel POV's because as much as I loved the story, this chance would ultimately be what made it a five star read. I loved the character's of Ben and August, but I felt a disconnect, a gap if you will, in the story because of the lack of duel POV. Now, saying that, I still was stunned and impressed with this storyline, and read it from start to stop in one sitting because I was extremely invested in Arlo's story.
If you've read Amber Lacie before, or you're new to her writing you, you will love The Pieces That Built Me as much as I did, if not more. Amber Lacie is amazing at giving her readers an emotional and gritty story that is different with each book she delivers.
Review provided on behalf of Spellbound Stories (http://www.thespellboundstories.com)
While I did not sob through The Pieces that Built Me as I have with previous works by Amber Lacie, I did get teary and was quite literally stunned repeatedly with the curveballs Arlo had thrown at her. The plot will leave you guessing. I loved some of the secondary characters and other's I wanted to throat punch...My Favorite was Andrea, Arlo's BFF. I think everyone needs an Andrea in their life and I hope to see more of her and her crazy shenanigans in another story...possibly with Blake!?!?! Also, while I didn't not agree with some of the decisions Arlo makes in her life, I am glad she found love, more than once! Both Ben and August left me itching for more...and I wish we had gotten this story in duel POV's because as much as I loved the story, this chance would ultimately be what made it a five star read. I loved the character's of Ben and August, but I felt a disconnect, a gap if you will, in the story because of the lack of duel POV. Now, saying that, I still was stunned and impressed with this storyline, and read it from start to stop in one sitting because I was extremely invested in Arlo's story.
If you've read Amber Lacie before, or you're new to her writing you, you will love The Pieces That Built Me as much as I did, if not more. Amber Lacie is amazing at giving her readers an emotional and gritty story that is different with each book she delivers.
Review provided on behalf of Spellbound Stories (http://www.thespellboundstories.com)
January 24, 2018
Arlington's story is an emotional journey filled with love, loss, second chances and regrets. I found the plot to be very enjoyable and emotional. (Yes it did move me to tears at one point and that does not happen often for me). The characters are realistic and flawed (this does mean that they tend to be aggravating at times). This wasn't a book that gripped me so tightly I had to read it all in one setting. I found myself getting frustrated at Arlo and would set it aside, but curiosity to see how things played out always brought me back. This story takes place over a long period of time. We see Arlo grow from teenager into adult and that was one that kept pulling me out of the story. The sometimes large passages of time that occurred within the story are where I would set the book down, making it harder for me to connect with what was happening within the story. It is a stylistic choice the author used that probably wouldn't bother most people.
Spoiler Alert: The ending of this book sets up another book dealing with Ben. I however would be more interested in reading about August. He is such a HUGE part of Arlo's life yet I felt I never really got to see what made him tick. What motivated him (other than his feelings for Arlo). I felt that Ben was much easier to figure out. I understood Arlo's relationship with him, that she used Ben as a way to cope with losing her brother. I would love to see more depth in her relationship with August, having it portrayed as something other than young, first love. I would love to know what August was up to in California! I don't find myself as interest in Ben's story. (Although I do admit to being curious to see if he actually makes good on his word to Arlo.)
Spoiler Alert: The ending of this book sets up another book dealing with Ben. I however would be more interested in reading about August. He is such a HUGE part of Arlo's life yet I felt I never really got to see what made him tick. What motivated him (other than his feelings for Arlo). I felt that Ben was much easier to figure out. I understood Arlo's relationship with him, that she used Ben as a way to cope with losing her brother. I would love to see more depth in her relationship with August, having it portrayed as something other than young, first love. I would love to know what August was up to in California! I don't find myself as interest in Ben's story. (Although I do admit to being curious to see if he actually makes good on his word to Arlo.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2018
I fell in love with Amber Lacie’s work after reading Indigo, but I have to say that this book tops everything by her. Amber really knows how to grip her audience when creating a story and she did it so perfectly. I could relate to the characters and just found them to be loveable. I seriously couldn’t put this book down until the very end as I was that hooked from page one. I know for a fact that Amber has a lot of talent and if you haven’t read any of her work then you are seriously missing out big time. From the atmosphere I got from this book I could tell that this was an emotional one and that it was going to have you bawling your eyes out, for me that wasn’t the case. I just don’t cry at books, but I do think it’s pretty amazing when an author can bring out that emotion in you. It shows then that they have got serious talent.
There’s a saying that goes along the lines of that there’s nothing more stronger than a mothers love, however in this book that saying is completely turned over. Arlington and her twin brother Daniel have always stuck together, when one of them cries so does the other, but whilst they were close as thieves when they were tiny, something changed one night and it effected how their bond developed as they got older. All Arlington ever wanted was to make sure that she was there for her brother just like he was for her, but during their senior year at school both of their lives were turned over for good. I would go into more detail but honestly if they did, I feel like I would just ruin things for you. But I do recommend that you give this book a try and form your own opinion.
There’s a saying that goes along the lines of that there’s nothing more stronger than a mothers love, however in this book that saying is completely turned over. Arlington and her twin brother Daniel have always stuck together, when one of them cries so does the other, but whilst they were close as thieves when they were tiny, something changed one night and it effected how their bond developed as they got older. All Arlington ever wanted was to make sure that she was there for her brother just like he was for her, but during their senior year at school both of their lives were turned over for good. I would go into more detail but honestly if they did, I feel like I would just ruin things for you. But I do recommend that you give this book a try and form your own opinion.
July 17, 2019
This book sat in on my kindle for months, o know it was exactly the kind of book I enjoyed (the rip you heart out and shred it to pieces kind).
This is my first Amber Lacie book, and I wasn’t prepared for the magnitude of emotional conflict I felt. It was deep and it hurt to read as there was some latent trigger points for me.
It was messy.
It was beautiful.
It was tragic.
It was heart and soul shattering.
It was everything.
Love knows no bounds and no matter the kind of love, it has that power to strip you of everything you have, to break you, for you to lose yourself completely, to give until you have no more pieces to give- and then you just might be able to put those pieces back together, even the missing ones you never knew belonged to you!
This story gave me a major book hangover and it’s taken me over a week to come back and find the words to give it the review I Hope makes you want to read it!
It’s not a perfect love story, but it’s a story about love.
Arlington’s love for her brother
For August
For Ben
For Jack
For herself
For the love she had all along but couldn’t see it.
Arlington you’re a true book heroine, and I’m pretty sure there’s real women like you out there!
This book gives hope even when nothing but darkness and pain seems possible.
5 all out emotional stars!
Well written and fan-freakin-tastic Amber Lacie!!
This is my first Amber Lacie book, and I wasn’t prepared for the magnitude of emotional conflict I felt. It was deep and it hurt to read as there was some latent trigger points for me.
It was messy.
It was beautiful.
It was tragic.
It was heart and soul shattering.
It was everything.
Love knows no bounds and no matter the kind of love, it has that power to strip you of everything you have, to break you, for you to lose yourself completely, to give until you have no more pieces to give- and then you just might be able to put those pieces back together, even the missing ones you never knew belonged to you!
This story gave me a major book hangover and it’s taken me over a week to come back and find the words to give it the review I Hope makes you want to read it!
It’s not a perfect love story, but it’s a story about love.
Arlington’s love for her brother
For August
For Ben
For Jack
For herself
For the love she had all along but couldn’t see it.
Arlington you’re a true book heroine, and I’m pretty sure there’s real women like you out there!
This book gives hope even when nothing but darkness and pain seems possible.
5 all out emotional stars!
Well written and fan-freakin-tastic Amber Lacie!!
December 10, 2018
Well this is a first. I didn't cry. I didn't have to fight throwing my kindle at the atrocities or emotions. But. . . . damn if this author doesn't do things to me in her stories. Arlington. . . man the life she led the choices she met, the things she dealt with just broke my heart. OK I may not have had the intense response I usually have from her books but this was an emotional story. Dealing with a father who couldn't be bothered to parent and a mother to busy being gone and drunk to deal with her kids, didn't help when her brother started having problems. She was the peacemaker and also the care giver. Her priorities firmly in place because of their home situation. She had to grow up to fast seeking love in the wrong place. It's no wonder she didn't recognize love or how to receive it. For a girl that made a lot of bad choices, she grows to become a stand up woman doing the best she can and doing well.
This author does a story with angst, heartbreak and all kinds of hardships. Her characters don't have it easy so she makes it her mission in life to stretch us in every way she can. This story is just a sample of the dastardly things she does with words and characters. It's a wonderful read.
This author does a story with angst, heartbreak and all kinds of hardships. Her characters don't have it easy so she makes it her mission in life to stretch us in every way she can. This story is just a sample of the dastardly things she does with words and characters. It's a wonderful read.
January 13, 2018
I have always called Amber the Queen of ugly cries and
she doesn't disappoint with this book. I had to take a day before reviewing to wrap my head around what I had just read. I have a awful book hangover, but that always happens after reading Ambers books. At times in this book I felt like my heart was being ripped out of my chest,
but she always fixes it. I could not put this book down.
I stayed up way past my bed time to finish, I had to know what was gonna happen.
If you are looking for an emotional rollercoaster read that you cant put down this book is for you.
I loved Arlo and August's story. Poor Arlo has gone through some pretty awful stuff
to get to where she is in life. I have decided I am gonna kidnap August and keep him for myself. I mean who doesn't love a rock star.
There was times I would have loved to jump in this book and hug her and him.
This is probably my favorite book by Amber!
I have read all her books and they just keep getting better and better.
Guys this is a must read, along with all of Amber's other books..
she doesn't disappoint with this book. I had to take a day before reviewing to wrap my head around what I had just read. I have a awful book hangover, but that always happens after reading Ambers books. At times in this book I felt like my heart was being ripped out of my chest,
but she always fixes it. I could not put this book down.
I stayed up way past my bed time to finish, I had to know what was gonna happen.
If you are looking for an emotional rollercoaster read that you cant put down this book is for you.
I loved Arlo and August's story. Poor Arlo has gone through some pretty awful stuff
to get to where she is in life. I have decided I am gonna kidnap August and keep him for myself. I mean who doesn't love a rock star.
There was times I would have loved to jump in this book and hug her and him.
This is probably my favorite book by Amber!
I have read all her books and they just keep getting better and better.
Guys this is a must read, along with all of Amber's other books..
January 23, 2018
I wholeheartedly loved this story by Amber Lacie. This is my first book by her and I knew from the beginning I would love it. I found this story both realistic and relatable, I felt their pain, their joy, frustration and fear……oh, my heart. It’s an addictive and touching read that I will remember for a long time. I had a hard time putting this one down. Arlington is an amazing character. She’s so brave and strong…..I loved being on this meaningful journey with her, beginning to end and every page….every tear in between.
There are so many characters in this story that touched my heart, Arlington, Daniel, August, Andrea, Ben, Jack, her dad…..Their experiences together, some more tragic or emotional than others but, no less important, made me smile and cry along with them; tears…..happy and sad.
Will I read another by Amber Lacie? Yes, absolutely!! I look forward to it. I loved August in this story, not Ben so much but I can’t wait to read The Pieces That Built Him. I’m hoping it’ll help me see him differently, understand, maybe accept his imperfections and love him too.
There are so many characters in this story that touched my heart, Arlington, Daniel, August, Andrea, Ben, Jack, her dad…..Their experiences together, some more tragic or emotional than others but, no less important, made me smile and cry along with them; tears…..happy and sad.
Will I read another by Amber Lacie? Yes, absolutely!! I look forward to it. I loved August in this story, not Ben so much but I can’t wait to read The Pieces That Built Him. I’m hoping it’ll help me see him differently, understand, maybe accept his imperfections and love him too.
January 25, 2018
So this is pretty much Arlington's life story in every detail. It guides you through her heartbreaking childhood growing up with her twin brother Daniel, they didn't have a great start in life. When things take a dreadful turn for the worse she struggles to keep herself together. It really only gets worse from there on in.
This book takes you on one hell of an emotional journey with Arlo and all the twists and turns that life throws at her. Arlo avoided facing up to her problems and often preferred to run away from them or run straight into a new one. She blamed people...a lot, never realising how it wasn't solely their fault, in some ways despite Arlo experiencing more loss than most I found her quite selfish if not a little childish at times.
I was intrigued by Ben and definitely want to read more. Definitely looking forward to his story. Despite him making mistakes I felt sorry for Ben and want him to find happiness.
Overall, an emotionally charged tale of the long journey to find peace, love and happiness.
This book takes you on one hell of an emotional journey with Arlo and all the twists and turns that life throws at her. Arlo avoided facing up to her problems and often preferred to run away from them or run straight into a new one. She blamed people...a lot, never realising how it wasn't solely their fault, in some ways despite Arlo experiencing more loss than most I found her quite selfish if not a little childish at times.
I was intrigued by Ben and definitely want to read more. Definitely looking forward to his story. Despite him making mistakes I felt sorry for Ben and want him to find happiness.
Overall, an emotionally charged tale of the long journey to find peace, love and happiness.
January 12, 2018
This story will definitely be pulling at your heartstrings as you read it, it certainly did at mine! It is a well written emotional book full of loss, struggle and love and it’s one you need to read.
I loved the character of Arlington, Arlo to her friends; she has had a crap life but is loyal to a fault and loving. She loves her twin brother Daniel as only a twin can, she tries to protect him from a family who doesn’t care and a world which is harsh, but it’s a hard struggle for a young girl without support. She is scared and lonely until she meets her brother’s friend August, but her life is complicated and full of hurt. I loved how well written the characters were, how real and likeable, or hateable, there were certainly a few I really wanted to slap.
There is strength, weakness and love in this story, all human emotion is there on the page and Amber Lacie weaves it into a tale that will keep you reading. This is definitely one that you need to add to your TBR and one click.
I loved the character of Arlington, Arlo to her friends; she has had a crap life but is loyal to a fault and loving. She loves her twin brother Daniel as only a twin can, she tries to protect him from a family who doesn’t care and a world which is harsh, but it’s a hard struggle for a young girl without support. She is scared and lonely until she meets her brother’s friend August, but her life is complicated and full of hurt. I loved how well written the characters were, how real and likeable, or hateable, there were certainly a few I really wanted to slap.
There is strength, weakness and love in this story, all human emotion is there on the page and Amber Lacie weaves it into a tale that will keep you reading. This is definitely one that you need to add to your TBR and one click.
January 25, 2018
I love Amber Lacie’s writing and how she brings her characters to life from the first page. I got a little reprieve from the gut punch I usually get from her, but don't take that to mean this book wasn't packed with emotion.
There are many characters in this book, the primary being Arlington. The pieces of the puzzle are the pieces of her life. From an early childhood those pieces are broken and bent and we follow through life with her to find out how that happened.
This story is full of love and loss. It's risks and safety. It's the unknown and absolute certainty. The thing is, you never know when you turn the page what it will bring. The characters in this book are strong. I think right out of the gate there was SO much going on that I felt a bit detached until about the halfway point, but by the end I was hooked and rooting for Arlington to get it together.
This is a great read, just like the rest of Ambers’ books, and you won't be disappointed taking the time to jump in!
There are many characters in this book, the primary being Arlington. The pieces of the puzzle are the pieces of her life. From an early childhood those pieces are broken and bent and we follow through life with her to find out how that happened.
This story is full of love and loss. It's risks and safety. It's the unknown and absolute certainty. The thing is, you never know when you turn the page what it will bring. The characters in this book are strong. I think right out of the gate there was SO much going on that I felt a bit detached until about the halfway point, but by the end I was hooked and rooting for Arlington to get it together.
This is a great read, just like the rest of Ambers’ books, and you won't be disappointed taking the time to jump in!
January 27, 2018
Amber Lacie has another masterpiece on her hands! It won't leave you sobbing like Breathe , but it will give you the same amazing storyline and true to life characters that you get from every unique story from Amber. The characters bring the story to life instantly and their story pulls you into their world and won't let go. I love Arlo. That girl is put through the ringer and picks herself back up and keeps on moving forward. August is so amazing, his words and the way he loves Arlo. He has a way with Arlo and those two together is just *swoon* worthy... eventually. And Ben. Ben is hot. Oh and Andrea, her best friend, is the best friend every girl needs. I cannot wait for The Pieces That Built Him!
Do yourself a favor and pick up The Pieces that Built Me and enjoy Arlo's story. Get ready to have this book consume you and take you on an emotional roller coaster you won't soon forget. I loved this read and I highly recommend it!
Do yourself a favor and pick up The Pieces that Built Me and enjoy Arlo's story. Get ready to have this book consume you and take you on an emotional roller coaster you won't soon forget. I loved this read and I highly recommend it!
February 14, 2018
This is the third book of Amber's that
I have read. Her books grab you and don't let go until you finish the book and sometimes not even then. This book is about a set of twins who have a rough way of growing up. Arlington and Daniel are mistreated by their family and have only each other until Daniel changes things for them. Arlington now must learn how to be on her own and she is not sure she can do this. While in school she and Daniel had a friend August who loves to sing, he also loves Arlington but she won't leave Daniel and so he goes to California and leaves her behind so she believes. When tragedy strikes she turns to Daniel's so called friends and she gets in deeper than she should. Over the years August comes back and he still loves Arlington but she doesn't think he could love her the way he left her and she tries pushing him away only he won't let her this time. A great read.
I have read. Her books grab you and don't let go until you finish the book and sometimes not even then. This book is about a set of twins who have a rough way of growing up. Arlington and Daniel are mistreated by their family and have only each other until Daniel changes things for them. Arlington now must learn how to be on her own and she is not sure she can do this. While in school she and Daniel had a friend August who loves to sing, he also loves Arlington but she won't leave Daniel and so he goes to California and leaves her behind so she believes. When tragedy strikes she turns to Daniel's so called friends and she gets in deeper than she should. Over the years August comes back and he still loves Arlington but she doesn't think he could love her the way he left her and she tries pushing him away only he won't let her this time. A great read.
February 14, 2018
What can I say Amber Lacie's books are fantastic. I have read every one of them on or before their released and she just keeps getting better. This one a story of a very dysfunctional family, that twins had more pain that anyone should have to bear. Arlington and Daniel are twins that love each other more then life it's self. When tragedy happens Arlington has to learn how to live as half of a whole. August loves to sing and wants to be a rock star, he wants Arlington to come with him to California she declines. Arlington meets Ben who makes the pain go away. One thing leads to another and Arlington has to find for herself. August loves Arlington and keeps come back for her. Arlington has decisions to make will she make the right ones? This story has everything in it heartbreak, love and more emotions than you can handle, oh bring the Kleenex.
February 21, 2018
Oh My Goodness....how many emotions can a poor human body experience in one day?! Poor Arlington.....it's no wonder she spent her young adulthood confused and struggling to find her place in the world. Growing up without any guidance and too much responsibility. Watching her brother continually being mistreated and not knowing how to help him, but loving him so much she was willing to throw away her own happiness. And August.....he was so amazing. He never doubted his love for Arlington, and never gave up on her. No matter how she hurt him, and no matter what bad decisions she made, he always had patience and came back for her over and over again. This book was a wonderful example of how parents affect their children's lives. It was more than a love story.....it was a journey through life, love, heartache and friendship.
January 11, 2018
The Pieces that Built Me is the story of Arlo and how she pieced herself together with the life that was handed to her. With a rough start, bad choices, and finally finding self worth and something to live for, Arlo creates a life for herself. Many times I found myself fussing at her and wanting to push her into doing what I knew she needed to do. But since, I couldn't really do that, Andrea does. Andrea is the kind of friend that everyone should have (and I would love to know her story . . . HINT, HINT, HINT). This story really does break your heart, but finds a way to piece it back together. This is exactly why Amber Lacie is one of my favorite authors. This is a must read if you like to be emotionally invested in your stories.
January 25, 2018
This is my first book by Amber Lacie and I have to say her style of writing and the story had me hooked from the start. It was just as the title suggested. Arlington had to grow up very quickly due to circumstances she had no control over. Piece by piece we read what she has to go through whether it was happiness, sorrow, hurt,secrets and whatever else life was going to throw at her. She had to take risks and chances with the men in her life and try to come out at the end unscathed.
There was so much emotion in the story, at times I could have cried for her.
The book was very intense and descriptive and although the timescales jumped in places I understood the story and it flowed without having to have every little detail written in.
A very enjoyable read !!
There was so much emotion in the story, at times I could have cried for her.
The book was very intense and descriptive and although the timescales jumped in places I understood the story and it flowed without having to have every little detail written in.
A very enjoyable read !!
January 25, 2018
I absolutely loved this book. The author creates characters that you can't help but fall in love with. She puts them in real life situations that rip your heart out. It's so easy to fully invest in their story, their journey becomes your own. Her stories touch your soul you see pieces of yourself or people you know in her characters. The title of this story "The Pieces that Built Me" rings true not just in the book, but in life... The good, the bad, the ugly, and everything in between... Everyone that comes into your life teaches you something, gives you something, leaves something... Love and Heartache, Joy and Pain, its all a part of the puzzle that is you. That is what I took away from this story and I can't wait for the next book. I definitely recommend this book!
December 20, 2018
“Life is like a puzzle. Sometimes, it's hard to see in the beginning the picture they would make, but part of the fun was building it.”
Every single time I read a novel by this author I'm taken into a world of pure emotion. I felt like I was there with Arlington every time her heart broke, every time she picked herself back up and forged ahead. Too much of this story was painfully real for me, a reminder of what I've lost, but also what I've gained. I laughed and cried with the characters, falling in love with each of them, feeling their loss as they fell victim to the very real problems in our world. This book was hard to put down for even a second, holding me captive as the story embraced me, needing to know what would happen next. I cannot wait for the next in series!
Every single time I read a novel by this author I'm taken into a world of pure emotion. I felt like I was there with Arlington every time her heart broke, every time she picked herself back up and forged ahead. Too much of this story was painfully real for me, a reminder of what I've lost, but also what I've gained. I laughed and cried with the characters, falling in love with each of them, feeling their loss as they fell victim to the very real problems in our world. This book was hard to put down for even a second, holding me captive as the story embraced me, needing to know what would happen next. I cannot wait for the next in series!
February 9, 2018
"If you have read Amber Lacie before you know she likes to kick you in the gut with all the feels: ex. Breathe. This one didn’t leave me sobbing which I was thankful for but I still loved it.
This is Arlington’s life story. And my goodness did this girl go through some things. But she stayed strong and did what was best for her life even with bumps in the road. She also had a crazy best friend that was always there for her; everyone should have a BFF like Andrea. I couldn’t help but to swoon over August and was keeping my fingers crossed that he would get his happiness.
I can’t wait for the next book that Amber Lacie writes; she just gets better and better!"
This is Arlington’s life story. And my goodness did this girl go through some things. But she stayed strong and did what was best for her life even with bumps in the road. She also had a crazy best friend that was always there for her; everyone should have a BFF like Andrea. I couldn’t help but to swoon over August and was keeping my fingers crossed that he would get his happiness.
I can’t wait for the next book that Amber Lacie writes; she just gets better and better!"
February 14, 2018
What can I say to show my love for this book?
I mean if you've never read one by this author this is the perfect one to start with. It has everything I expect, the emotions, the humor, the characters I get to know so well they seen almost real to me! They have all the imperfections and frailties as real people so at times you want to smack one of them!
In the end I was rooting for Arlo to get what she deserved after a lifetime of heartache, poor choices and a very poor self image. And yes, I cried again! What can I say? I love the emotions!
Can always count on Amber Lacie books for that! And characters we want to claim for our own!
I mean if you've never read one by this author this is the perfect one to start with. It has everything I expect, the emotions, the humor, the characters I get to know so well they seen almost real to me! They have all the imperfections and frailties as real people so at times you want to smack one of them!
In the end I was rooting for Arlo to get what she deserved after a lifetime of heartache, poor choices and a very poor self image. And yes, I cried again! What can I say? I love the emotions!
Can always count on Amber Lacie books for that! And characters we want to claim for our own!
May 31, 2018
The pieces that built me is wonderfully written, beautiful, totally soul shattering and breathtakingly to read.
The journey which this story takes you on is nothing less than amazing.
Their were many tears shed whilst reading this book and my heart shattered into tiny pieces. I was on a roller coaster ride with so many emotions sadness, angry, loss, heart broken and happiness.
I love all the characters and you can't help but fall in love with them and follow there journey. I don't think I'll ever get over this book. This book is one that will stay close to my heart forever.
The journey which this story takes you on is nothing less than amazing.
Their were many tears shed whilst reading this book and my heart shattered into tiny pieces. I was on a roller coaster ride with so many emotions sadness, angry, loss, heart broken and happiness.
I love all the characters and you can't help but fall in love with them and follow there journey. I don't think I'll ever get over this book. This book is one that will stay close to my heart forever.
January 21, 2018
Loved it!! I've volunteered to review this book for the author. This story will definitely be pulling at your heartstrings as you read it, it certainly did at mine! It is a well written emotional book full of loss, struggle and love and it’s one you need to read. I seriously couldn’t put this book down until the very end as I was that hooked from page one. This book was hard to put down for even a second. I needed to know what would happen next. I cannot wait for the next in series! Keep up the great work!
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